Best Braids to Try this Winter

Big to small, here are easy ways to wear braids this winter.

By Janel Martinez

Braids are a simple, versatile, protective style for the winter months. As a Latina who wears my hair natural, braids are a way for me to spruce up Day 3 hair or add a special touch to my crown. If you’re looking for a quick, stylish pick-me-up ‘do, you should try one of these simple and sophisticated winter ways to wear your hair.

Don’t worry – you don’t need to be an experienced braider to try any of these runway-to-everyday looks.

Milkmaid BraidsThis look is absolutely adorable. Part unwashed hair down the middle and, on one side, start the braid behind the lower part of your ear. Make sure the braid is tight and fasten it with elastic. Repeat that on the other side. Next, pull the first braid over the crown of your head and secure with bobby pins. You’ll need to place several pins along the braid. Do the same on the other side and try to keep the same angle so that the two braids connect to create a slight “x” on the top of your head.

Then very carefully begin to tuck the ends under the opposite braid without disturbing the braid’s placement on the head. Secure with bobby pins and adjust any loose strands that may have fallen out. Finish it off with Pantene Extra Strong Hold Hairspray.

Four for MoreThis is your average braid – plus one! Start the braid by holding two strands in each hand. Take the outside right-hand strand and pass it behind the other right-hand strand, and the inside left-hand strand. Bring it up between the two left-hand strands, and back to the right hand, keeping it to the inside of the other right-hand strand.

Next, mirror the first step. Take the outside left-hand strand and pass it behind the other left-hand strand and the inside right-hand strand. Bring it up through the middle of the right-hand strands and back into the left hand, to the inside of the other left-hand strand. Repeat both steps for the length of the braid. Although it’s an extra step or two, this style is a great way to switch up the traditional braid.

French Braid BangsThis is the one look you won’t mind bringing with you from warmer months. It’s easy to do and lasts all day. Begin by creating a deep side part at least two inches back. Gather an inch of hair at the hairline and separate into three sections. Then, pull the front piece of hair over the center piece. Follow by folding the back piece over the new center piece. Now, gather a section of hair in the front from your hairline, adding it into the front piece of hair and folding it over the center piece. With the back section, add an inch of hair and fold over the center.

Continue to do this, braiding the hair down the hairline and finishing just above the ear. Use a clear elastic or bobby pins to secure the braid in place. You’ve added a hint of fancy to any style you choose.

Bun with a BonusThis look is great for going from the office to an after-work party. Pull all of your hair to one side and separate it into three sections. Then braid. Secure it with a clear elastic at the end. Next, wrap the braid around itself and secure to the side of your head with a few bobby pins. For extra hold, spray Pantene Extra Strong Hold Hairspray around the bun. Yet another easy-to-follow braided look you can pull off in minutes.

What’s the easiest braided style for you to whip up in a pinch? Let us know in the comments section below.